MCB Camp Pendleton, California

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Pros

  1. Incredible Weather Year-Round
  2. Endless Outdoor Activities
  3. All the Amenities You’ll Need
  4. Beaches Galore
  5. Great Fresh Food Options
  6. Good Diversity
  7. Top Notch Public Schools

Camp Pendleton, situated along the Southern California coast, stands as the largest Marine Corps base on the West Coast and a key hub for military training and operations. Covering a vast expanse of diverse terrain, including miles of pristine coastline and rugged inland hills, the base provides an ideal environment for amphibious and expeditionary warfare training. Home to the I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton plays a critical role in maintaining the readiness of the U.S. Marine Corps. The base offers a range of facilities, from training areas to support services, and hosts a large population of military personnel and their families.

Cons

  1. High Cost of Living
  2. Expensive Housing
  3. Highest State Income Tax
  4. Congested Traffic

Oceanside, CA

Many of Servicemembers stationed at Camp Pendleton live in Oceanside: the 29th largest city in California (>170,000). Known for its expansive sandy beaches, Oceanside provides residents and visitors with a quintessential Southern California coastal experience. Oceanside is also the closest city to the installation, allowing for short commutes and safe environment. Homes here are less expensive than San Diego, especially in the Lake Park, San Luis Rey, and Oceana communities.

Temecula, CA

Servicemembers who want to live further inland and pay a little less for their home choose to live in Temecula, CA. Situated in the heart of Riverside County’s wine country, Temecula is a charming city known for its picturesque vineyards, historic Old Town, and scenic landscapes. School districts here are incredible and neighborhoods like Meadowview and Winchester Creek offer much more affordable housing!

San Diego, CA

Servicemembers who enjoy nightlife, people, endless activities, and don’t mind a 45-minute commute choose to live in San Diego: the 2nd largest city in California (>1,383,000). Being stationed at Camp Pendleton gives Servicemembers the opportunity to live in this vibrant city. Real Estate here is extremely expensive, but if you’re able to drop ~$1,000,000 on a home, San Diego is the superior location. The city also provides the best opportunity for short-term rentals!

FAQs

Where can I find in-processing information?

All Marines checking into the following will report to the Installation Personnel Administration Center Inbound Center located in Building 13107:

  • Marine Corps Base
  • I Marine Expeditionary Force
  • 1st Marine Division
  • 1st Marine Logistics Group
  • Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton
  • Marine Air Group 39
  • Weapons and Field Training Battalion

A duty is on post 24 hours a day to endorse orders for Marines reporting aboard Camp Pendleton after normal working hours. For more information, call the IPAC Inbound Center at 760-763-6992. After hours phone the duty at 760-725-6271.

The Inbound Center’s hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Visit Camp Pendleton | Check-in Procedures for more information.

Where are the transportation and personal property offices?

Located at Building 2263 at thge corner of Vandegrift Blvd. and 9th St., the Distribution Management Office is open for walk-in customers from 0730-1600hrs, Mon-Fri. Visit Camp Pendleton | Moving and PCS | Household Goods Info or call (760) 725-8666/8177/8663 for more information.

What childcare is available on-post?

The MCB Camp Pendleton Child Development Centers offer a variety of childcare services for children aged six weeks through five years to include full-day and hourly childcare.

Visit Child Development Centers (usmc-mccs.org) or call (760) 725-6308 for more information.

How can I confidently buy a home out-of-state?

Our service provides Servicemembers with the confidence to buy a home out of state by offering specialized support tailored to the unique challenges of military relocations. We understand the intricacies of PCS moves and are equipped to navigate the complexities of purchasing real estate from a distance. Our team is well-versed in military-friendly housing markets, ensuring Servicemembers have access to information about neighborhoods, schools, and amenities. Additionally, our network of trusted Veteran Agents spans across the U.S., enabling us to connect Servicemembers with experienced agents who specialize in remote transactions. Through personalized guidance, transparent communication, and a commitment to the specific needs of military personnel, our service aims to make the out-of-state home-buying process seamless and stress-free for Servicemembers and their families.

Where do I go to find a sponsor at my new duty station?

To help prepare sponsors for success, the Sponsorship Program provides training and access to important information and resources that can help newcomers master their move. Visit the Relocation Assistance Program at Building 13150, Camp Pendleton | Sponsorship Info & Programs, or call (760) 725-5704/3400 for more information.